Description
This luxurious seafood mac and cheese blends the silky smoothness of a rich cheese sauce with the delicate flavors of shrimp, crab, or lobster, making it a true comfort food masterpiece. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with seafood goodness, it’s the perfect dish for cozy nights, special occasions, or when you simply want to indulge in seafood bliss!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or preferred pasta shape)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (or a mix of crab and lobster)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for crispy topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook macaroni until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Seafood:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook shrimp (or other seafood) for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
3. Create the Velvety Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter in the same skillet and whisk in flour to form a smooth roux.
- Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper for extra depth.
- Lower the heat and gradually mix in all the cheeses until melted and smooth.
4. Bring It All Together:
- Fold in cooked pasta and seafood, ensuring everything is coated in the luscious cheese sauce.
5. Optional Baked Perfection:
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until golden brown.
6. Serve & Savor:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy this creamy, seafood-infused mac and cheese!
Notes
- Use a mix of seafood like crab, lobster, and scallops for a richer flavor profile.
- Substitute Gruyère or Gouda for a different cheese twist.
- Add cooked bacon or pancetta for an extra savory kick.
- For a spicier version, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop & Baking (optional)
- Cuisine: American / Comfort Food